
Fresh grilled shrimp bowls are a weeknight dream when you want maximum flavor with minimal fuss This vibrant dish brings together juicy shrimp creamy avocado sweet corn and a tangy yogurt sauce for that restaurant feel in less than half an hour
I fell in love with this bowl after grilling with friends last summer and now it is a regular quick dinner at my place Whenever I am stumped on dinner I grab some shrimp from the freezer and dinner is sorted
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: you want them peeled and deveined for the best texture choose wild caught for sweetness and firmness
- Avocado: adds creamy richness look for ripe fruit that yields gently to pressure
- Corn kernels: fresh when in season or frozen for convenience bring natural sweetness
- Cherry tomatoes: boost juiciness and color go for plump tomatoes with taut skins
- Small red onion: gives just enough bite choose ones that feel heavy for their size
- Greek yogurt: forms the creamy base of the sauce use full fat for maximum flavor
- Garlic: brings punchy depth make sure your cloves are firm and white for best taste
- Olive oil: helps bind the marinade and brings subtle richness opt for extra virgin
- Lime juice: fresh squeezed lifts all the flavors and keeps the salsa bright
- Salt and pepper: basic seasoning but worth using sea salt and freshly ground pepper
- Fresh cilantro: for garnish if you like an herby hit choose bright green bunches
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- Combine peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil lime juice salt and pepper in a bowl Toss everything well and let it sit for ten minutes This quick soak makes the shrimp extra juicy and infuses them with zesty flavor
- Prepare the Corn Salsa:
- In another bowl add corn red onion cherry tomatoes diced avocado and chopped cilantro Squeeze in extra lime juice Then sprinkle in salt and pepper Gently fold everything together being careful not to smash the avocado Too much mixing can make the salsa mushy and you want each bite distinct
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- In a small bowl stir together Greek yogurt and minced garlic Add a pinch of salt Taste and if it is too thick loosen with a small splash of water until pourable This sauce brings everything together
- Grill the Shrimp:
- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill until hot Arrange the shrimp in a single layer Grill for two to three minutes per side turning just once Shrimp are done when they look pink and slightly curled Overcooking makes them rubbery so keep a close eye
- Assemble the Bowl:
- Place a generous scoop of grilled shrimp into your bowl Top with a mound of corn salsa Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce liberally over the top Aim for a little of everything in each spoonful
- Garnish and Serve:
- Scatter fresh cilantro leaves if you wish for extra color and aroma Serve the bowl right away for maximum texture and flavor This dish tastes best while the shrimp are still warm

Every time I make this bowl the sweet corn reminds me of family summer picnics when we would grill vegetables straight from the market The Greek yogurt garlic sauce is my personal favorite ingredient I could eat it on almost anything and it pulls the whole dish together beautifully
Storage Tips
If you are making this in advance store each component separately in airtight containers The grilled shrimp will keep in the fridge for up to two days Corn salsa is best fresh but one day ahead is fine The sauce can last up to three days in the fridge For the best flavors assemble just before eating
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of shrimp you can swap in grilled chicken or even tofu Grilled zucchini or bell pepper can replace the corn for a different twist If you need dairy free use coconut yogurt in place of Greek yogurt and skip the creamy sauce or make a vinaigrette instead
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bowl as is for a refreshing meal or make it heartier by spooning it over steamed rice or quinoa For a fun party option set out the components with tortilla chips and let everyone build their own bowl or nachos

Cultural Context
Grilled shrimp bowls like this are inspired by coastal flavors where seafood and fresh produce meet bright citrus and cooling sauces The combination of corn avocado and lime reflects vibrant flavors commonly found in Latin American cooking and the yogurt sauce is a nod to Mediterranean influences
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking on the grill?
Grill shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Watch closely, as overcooking makes them tough.
- → Can frozen corn be used in the salsa?
Yes, thaw frozen corn before mixing with other salsa ingredients for best texture and taste.
- → What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in the sauce?
Try sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative for similar creaminess and tang.
- → Is it possible to prepare components ahead of time?
Corn salsa and garlic sauce can be made ahead, but grill shrimp just before serving for best results.
- → What other toppings pair well with this bowl?
Additions like sliced radishes, pickled onions, or a sprinkle of queso fresco complement the bowl nicely.